Exploring Xitang: A cultural journey with foreign influencer
Nabil and his wife Yin Hongxia pose for a photo in front of their Hanfu shop on Feb 16. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]
On Feb 16, a hanfu shop in Xitang Ancient Town was bustling with activity. Nabil, the owner, warmly recommended hanfu attire to tourists.
Originally from Yemen, Nabil arrived in China in 1986 for studies. During his time in Shanghai, he met his wife, Yin Hongxia. Six years ago, they visited Xitang and fell in love with its beauty, deciding to make it their home. "Seeing the exquisite hanfu during Xitang Hanfu Cultural Week, we were inspired to open a hanfu shop here," Nabil recalled.
This Chinese New Year, Nabil's hanfu shop thrived. Sporting hanfu himself, Nabil became an online celebrity, promoting Chinese culture and endorsing Xitang as a must-visit. During the Spring Festival, tourists could engage in traditional activities like pitching pots and woodblock printing in the ancient town.
Throughout the Chinese New Year, Xitang arranged diverse performances, from welcoming the God of Wealth to hanfu shows, allowing tourists to collect holiday blessings.
Nabil and his wife and visitors display their drawings. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]